Applying of external fixator in the distal radius (An anatomic study in cadaver forearms)

We performed an anatomic study in 16 cadaver forearms to determine the safety of percutaneous proximal pin placement for external fixation of distal radius fractures. Two 3mm. cortical pins were placed along the dorsoradial ridge 8 cm. proximal to the radial styloid process. Soft tissue injuries occured in 11 cases. Tendon injuries occured the extensor carpi radialis brevis in 3, extensor carpi radialis longus 4, abductor pollicis longus and brachioradialis in 1 case. Two pins transfixed the superficial branch of the radial nerve. A high degree of variability in the position of the superficial branch of the radial nerve was found and no safe zone for percutaneous pin placement could be found. We advice open pin placement for distal radius fractures because of percutaneous pin placement was not safe.